Guest Author: Ria
When I first started looking at schools for exchange, I had one clear vision in mind: somewhere hot, close to a beach, and warm year-round. Prague was never part of that original plan. After doing more research, however, I found myself drawn to Prague because of its location, affordability, and ease of travel. Looking back now, choosing Prague was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I don’t regret a single thing.
People always say exchange is the best time of their lives, and I used to think that sounded a bit exaggerated. Before leaving, I didn’t fully understand just how much exchange would change me, but it did in ways I never expected. Prague, in particular, played a huge role in that transformation.
My First Week in Prague
My first week in Prague felt surreal. I had never traveled to Europe before, and suddenly I was living in a completely new city, navigating a new culture, and adjusting to an entirely different way of life. Everything felt unfamiliar, exciting, and slightly overwhelming in the best way.
That week, I met a group of American girls, and instantly we clicked. What started as casual conversations turned into spending every day together, and before we knew it, we were inseparable. Those girls ended up becoming my core group, and we spent the rest of exchange traveling together, living together, and creating memories that defined the entire experience.
The first night we all met
The First Snowfall
One of the moments that really stands out from the beginning of exchange was the first snowfall. It happened on one of our first nights out at a local bar. When we stepped outside and saw the snow falling, the city felt completely transformed. For me, it was beautiful, but for the girls from Texas, it was shocking. Watching their reactions made the moment even more special, and it felt like one of those small, unexpected experiences that exchange gives you.
Prague in the snow felt magical, like something out of a movie. That night captured what the city was all about, ordinary moments turning into unforgettable memories.
Finding My Way Around
Despite being in a new city, I never really felt lost in Prague. The tram system is simple, and no matter where you get on, it feels like everything leads back to the city center. That familiarity made settling in so much easier and gave me the confidence to explore without fear of getting stuck or overwhelmed.
When Prague Started to Feel Like Home
The moment Prague truly started to feel like home wasn’t tied to a place, but to the people. It was those late nights when we’d come back from weekend trips, no matter how late it was, and sit together talking about everything we had just experienced. Sharing stories, laughing, and reflecting on our weekends made the city feel grounded and comfortable.
It wasn’t just a place I was living in anymore, it was where my people were. That’s when I realized Prague wasn’t just a destination, it was home.
Final Thoughts
Choosing Prague for exchange wasn’t part of my original plan, but it ended up being exactly where I was meant to be. The city, the people, and the moments in between made this experience unforgettable. Exchange will change you no matter where you go, but if you let it, Prague will change you in the best way possible.